My iPad is maybe 2 mos. old - now I'm seeing a purple colored 1" strip running vertically from top to bottom. Additionally, there is also a purple colored blob near the center of the screen. This anomaly is present in all apps, including Photos. I've installed InvisibleShield on the viewing screen, but I don't think that's a contributing factor. Any ideas?

Iv experienced almost the exact same thing. After 2 months of owning the ipad, i woke up to find a 2" white strip on the left hand side. Took it to the apple store, they had no idea what caused it & gave me a new ipad. I think thats your best bet.